Theme 1: Coastal and Island Tourism

Reef Protection, Coral Restoration, and Responsible Diving

This session will explore the critical role of sustainable practices in protecting coral reefs, restoring damaged ecosystems, and promoting responsible diving. Panelists will discuss best practices for coral restoration techniques, the impact of tourism on reef health, and strategies for ensuring that diving and snorkeling activities contribute to conservation efforts. The session will highlight how raising awareness among both locals and visitors is key to fostering a culture of sustainability and reef protection. Attendees will gain insights into how educational initiatives can drive responsible behavior and empower communities to engage in the preservation of marine biodiversity.

• Helen Sykes – Owner, Marine Ecology Consulting / Director, Resort Support
• Dr. Frank Griffin – Executive Director, The Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security (CTI-CFF)
• Dev Albao – Programmes Manager, The Reef-World Foundation
  

Islands’ Inland: Not only Sea & Sun

Traditionally, island tourism has centered around beaches and coastal attractions. This session shifts the spotlight inland, highlighting the opportunities for developing diverse tourism experiences away from the shoreline. Discussions will explore how cultural, nature-based, and adventure tourism can thrive in lesser-known inland areas, contributing to balanced growth and sustainable visitor experiences. Attendees will gain insights into practical strategies for promoting inland destinations and fostering tourism that benefits communities across the entire island.

Moderator: Wendy Li – National Programs Director, GSTC

• Marita Manley – Director, Talanoa Treks / Founder & Principal Consultant, Talanoa Consulting
• Natalie Kidd – Managing Director, Asia and Global Operations, Intrepid; GSTC Board Member
  

Small Island Destination Management

This session will address the unique challenges and opportunities in managing tourism for small island destinations from different perspectives. Panelists will discuss key aspects such as balancing visitor growth with environmental protection, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring economic benefits for local communities. Best practices in sustainable destination management will be highlighted, with a focus on governance, community engagement, and resilience planning in the face of climate change. Attendees will gain actionable insights into strategies that promote long-term sustainability while maintaining the distinctive character and natural beauty of island destinations like Fiji.

Moderator: Penny Spoelder – Senior Associate, TRC Tourism

• Janel Campbell – Senior Manager, Sustainable Tourism, The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
• Marzeta Bodden – Deputy Director, Tourism Product Development, Cayman Islands Department of Tourism
• Jenny Leewai Bourke – Executive Director, Nukubati Island Resort
• Paul Pio – Director, Department of Tourism, Vanuatu Ministry of Trade and Commerce

Sustainable Hospitality and Coastal Development

This session will focus on hospitality in coastal areas, exploring how hotels and resorts can be built and operated in a more sustainable manner. Key topics include responsible coastal development, protecting ecosystems, and adapting accommodations to climate challenges. Learn how the hospitality industry can play a crucial role in both enhancing guest experiences and ensuring the long-term sustainability of coastal destinations.

Moderator: Koko Tang – Founder, Colorful Earth; GSTC Board Member

• Amy Breckon – Senior Program Officer, Coastal Tourism + Development, World Wildlife Fund
• Bhummikitti Riktaengam – President, Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation, Phuket

Theme 2: Community, Culture, and Responsible Development

Leveraging Local Culture for Tourism

With a focus on Pacific-led models and community-driven initiatives, this session will explore how integrating local culture into tourism experiences can create more authentic, sustainable, and meaningful visitor engagements while directly benefiting host communities. Panelists will discuss best practices for showcasing traditional customs, arts, cuisine, and storytelling as essential elements of destination identity.

The session will feature examples of how cultural tourism, when thoughtfully and responsibly managed, can preserve heritage, empower local artisans and cultural practitioners, and generate lasting economic opportunities.

Moderator: Prof. Joseph Cheer – Professor of Sustainable Tourism, Western Sydney University

• Ivan Henares, President of the International Cultural Tourism Committee of ICOMOS
• Anaseini Bakaniceva – Global Marketing Manager, Tourism Fiji
• Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana – Managing Director, TRC Tourism

Workforce Development & Community Empowerment

This session explores strategies to build a sustainable and inclusive tourism industry. Key topics include upskilling the workforce with sustainability-focused training, promoting ethical employment practices to ensure fair wages, and engaging local communities in destination stewardship. Discover how collaboration between businesses, governments, and communities can foster a responsible tourism model that benefits both people and the planet.

Moderator: Jorge Moller – Latin America Program Director, GSTC

• Kuniko Takasaki – Managing Executive Officer, Chief DEIB Officer, of JTB Group
• Nipatpong Chuanchuen – Expert and Researcher about Net Zero Tourism in Thailand, Trekking Thai
• Dr. Christian Schott – Associate Professor in Management for Sustainability, Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington
  

Connecting Global Partners with Local Community Development

This session will explore how global partnerships can help drive local tourism initiatives that support communities, preserve culture, and encourage sustainable development. It will highlight practical ways to connect international organizations and investors with locally led projects that reflect community needs and values.

Key topics will include successful partnership models, attracting impact investment for community-based tourism, and the role of policy and governance in supporting sustainable tourism financing.

Moderator: David Ermen – Managing Director, Destination Capacity

• Jorge Moller – Latin America Program Director, GSTC
• Becky Last – Senior Sustainable Tourism Expert

Sustainable Certification for Micro and Small Enterprises: Opportunities and Challenges

This session will unpack the benefits and process of achieving GSTC certification, with a focus on micro and small enterprises. Attendees will learn about the main challenges and opportunities drawing from the journeys from different enterprises and other stakeholders involved in SME Certification. The session will also provide practical guidance on improvement plans and actionable steps for businesses looking to boost their sustainability efforts.

Moderator: Randy Durband – CEO, GSTC

• Stefano Ravelli – Chair of the GSTC Italy Working Group
• Dr. Mihee Kang – Chief Assurance Officer, GSTC

Cruises, Yachts, Ports and Destinations

This session will explore the complex dynamics between cruises, yachts, ports, and the destinations they serve, with a focus on promoting sustainable growth across small islands and coastal communities. Panelists will discuss the environmental, social, and economic impacts of maritime tourism, highlighting strategies to minimize negative effects while maximizing benefits.

Key topics will include port infrastructure development, sustainable yacht tourism, and destination resilience. Special attention will be given to dispersing tourism across secondary destinations, empowering local communities in less-visited areas, and fostering destination stewardship. Discussions will also address how cruise lines and Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) can contribute to leaving destinations in better condition, and how small destinations can develop sustainably within the larger tourism ecosystem.

Moderator: Leigh Howard – Chief Operating Officer, Tropica Group of Companies

• Vaihere Lissant – CEO, Tahiti Tourisme
• Joel Katz – Managing Director, Australasia, Cruise Lines Association Lines/CLIA
  

Theme 3: Climate Resilience, Adaption, and Sustainable Recovery

Destination Roadmaps and Sustainability Plans

This session will focus on the development and implementation of destination roadmaps and sustainability plans as essential tools for guiding sustainable tourism growth. Panelists will share insights on how to create comprehensive strategies that balance environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and economic development. Case studies will highlight collaborative approaches involving local governments, industry stakeholders, and communities to establish long-term goals and measurable outcomes.

Moderator: Andrew Leary – Principal, Coraggio Group

• Chris Cocker – CEO, Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO)
• Morgan Mingle – Director of Sustainable Tourism, Park City Chamber and Visitor’s Bureau
• Kiri Goulter – Destination Stewardship Expert; previously Destination Management Director, Regional Tourism New Zealand (RTNZ)

Paving a Way to Resilience: How the Cook Islands is Planning its Development through Tourism (Powered by Destination Wayfinder)

The Cook Islands is pioneering a new tourism model, balancing economic prosperity, environmental protection and cultural preservation through sustainable tourism growth. But what makes this new model so innovative? In this session, discover how the Cook Islands is embedding a holistic destination stewardship approach into its tourism strategy and what steps it’s taking to ensure tourism remains a resilient, sustainable and inclusive industry for all Cook Islanders. 

This session will unpack key steps that the Cook Islands has taken to carry out its ambitious goals, from enabling governance at a nationwide level and establishing the Destination Stewardship Advisory Group, to participating in the GSTC Assessment and leveraging Destination Wayfinder’s technology platform to aid in strategic implementation. 

Expect a candid and insightful conversation on the policies, partnerships, strategic decisions, and industry activation that have shaped the Cook Islands’ path toward sustainable tourism—and the development and launch of the nation’s first Destination Stewardship Plan.

Facilitator: Kristin Dunne – Vice President, Destination Stewardship, Destination Wayfinder

• Karla Eggelton – CEO, Cook Islands Tourism Corporation
• Brad Kirner – Director of Destination Development, Cook Islands Tourism Corporation
• Dr. David Ermen – Managing Director, Destination Capacity
• Dr. Kelly Bricker – Associate Dean of the HNU-ASU Joint International College; GSTC Vice-Chair

Climate Resilience, Disasters, and Sustainable Recovery

This session will address how destinations can prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters while prioritizing sustainability and resilience. Panelists will discuss disaster risk management, climate adaptation strategies, and the critical role of local communities and tourism stakeholders in recovery efforts. Case studies will highlight successful recovery initiatives that balance rebuilding with sustainability, focusing on restoring ecosystems, protecting livelihoods, and fostering long-term resilience.

Moderator: Matthew Landkamer – Founding Principal, Whereabout

• Kasi Taukeinikoro – Director, Rivers Fiji
• Prof. James Daniell, Co-founder, Risklayer
• Geoff Hyde – Managing Director, Sustainable Tourism International

Sustainability Measurement & Evaluation

Measurement and evaluation is a crucial part of sustainability in tourism and is often mentioned in the suggested performance indicators of the GSTC Standards (formerly known as GSTC Criteria). Join industry leaders and experts as we navigate the complex landscape of sustainability measurement and evaluation, learning from a comprehensive discussion that includes stats, trends, and useful examples. This session will provide insights into effective evaluation techniques that drive continual improvement in sustainability practices, ensuring a responsible and measurable approach to tourism.

Moderator: Jason Lin – Co-founder & CEO, Hotelzero

• Dr. Susanne Becken – Professor of Sustainable Tourism, Griffith University
• Olivier Ponti – Director of Intelligence & Marketing, ForwardKeys
• Christopher Hancock – Senior Director, Global Procurement and Environmental Programs, Destination Canada
• Susana Vicente Álamo – ESG Director, Peninsula Papagayo

Sustainability in Attractions

Attractions are a critical component of the tourism industry, with millions of visitors visiting popular destinations worldwide, and therefore play an important role in shaping experiences. Attractions have the power to promote sustainable practices, preserve cultural heritage, and protect natural resources. Sustainable management practices in attractions can minimize these impacts while providing a quality visitor experience. In addition, attractions can act as ambassadors for sustainability and inspire visitors to engage in sustainable behaviors. Sustainable management in attractions includes a range of strategies, from efficient resource management to promoting local cultures and heritage. Through discussion and case studies, the panel will explore best practices, challenges, and opportunities for creating sustainable attractions that benefit both visitors and local communities.

• Clara Burgos – Professional, Sub-Directorate for Sustainability and Environmental Business / Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Sustainable Events

The new GSTC MICE Standard was launched earlier this year, which is divided into three sub-sectors: Venues, Event Organizers, and Events & Exhibitions. This session will explore strategies for advancing sustainability within the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector with a focus on sustainable events. Experts will share insights on implementing sustainable practices throughout the event lifecycle, from venue selection and waste management to catering and transportation. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on minimizing the environmental impact of events while enhancing social and economic benefits for local communities. Case studies and best practices will highlight relevant models for hosting sustainable MICE events.

• Jessica Vandy – Senior Consultant – Asia Pacific, Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement)
• Roger Simons – Sustainability Director, Marina Bay Sands

Tourism and Environmental Regeneration

Moderator: Jim Sano – Vice President for Travel, Tourism and Conservation, WWF

• Raquel Saavedra Dias – Sustainability Director, Six Senses Fiji
• Seiuli Dwayne Bentley – Pacific Ocean Litter Project Coordinator, Secretariat for the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP)

Workshops

Roadmaps for Destination Sustainability workshop (Part 1 & Part 2)

This workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of how destinations can embark on the path to sustainability using the GSTC framework. Participants will explore the essential steps involved, from initial assessments and stakeholder engagement to implementing sustainable practices that drive continuous improvement.

Key elements of the session will include an introduction to the Destination Stewardship Starter Kit, a valuable resource designed to support destination managers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in transitioning towards a stewardship approach. The workshop will also cover practical tools and strategies for managing tourism impacts effectively and fostering collaboration across sectors.
Attendees will leave with actionable insights and a clear roadmap to help their destinations thrive while advancing towards sustainability goals.

Facilitators:

• Dr. Kelly Bricker – Director, Center for Sustainable Tourism, Arizona State University; GSTC Vice-Chair
• Tiffany Chan – Destination Program Manager, GSTC

Storytelling Through Films (by GLP Films)

This interactive session highlights the power of storytelling as a catalyst for change across destinations. Participants will be walked through compelling case studies that demonstrate how visual narratives can address real-world tourism challenges. By focusing on stewardship, inclusion, and authentic local voices, this format empowers all tourism stakeholders – from communities and businesses to governments and NGOs – to play a role in shaping a more sustainable and prosperous future.

Participants will explore destination challenges, strategic responses, and storytelling outcomes; learn how to create meaningful, personalized content that resonates with audiences; be inspired to tell their own destination’s story in a way that drives impact and empowers others.

Facilitator: Rob Holmes – Founder & Chief Strategist, GLP Films

Sustainable Marine Tourism Class: Green Fins Standard

Scuba diving, snorkelling, and other marine tourism activities can be powerful tools for ocean conservation, but without proper management, they can also damage marine ecosystems. There are already many dive centres, snorkelling centres, and liveaboard businesses that use the Green Fins standards to protect the marine environment where they operate. This class about the Green Fins standards, led by Dev Albao from The Reef-World Foundation, will guide you through best practices for diving and snorkelling operations, offering clear steps for immediate action, training, and ongoing improvement. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to implement sustainable practices that not only protect coral reefs but also ensure the long-term success of your business and the marine tourism industry. Spearheaded internationally by The Reef-World Foundation in partnership with the UN Environment Programme, the Green Fins initiative sets internationally recognized environmental standards for marine tourism, equipping operators with a practical framework to reduce harmful practices and enhance conservation efforts.

Speaker: Dev Albao – Programmes Manager, The Reef-World Foundation (Green Fins)

Destination Standard Consultation Workshop

F&B Standard Consultation Workshop

So Young Lee – Project Manager, GSTC

Travel Redefined: Tourism for People and Planet (by GSTC & CWP)

Travel Redefined is the most ambitious storytelling project of its kind — a global digital series capturing the future of sustainable tourism in action. Produced by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) in partnership with Content With Purpose (CWP), the series spans six continents, over 20 countries, and features 55 shoot days and more than 50 changemakers, from policymakers and businesses to local leaders and community voices.

This landmark series explores how destinations around the world are turning the GSTC Standards into real-world solutions — tackling climate change, biodiversity loss, accessibility, over-tourism, and more. Through visually rich storytelling and expert insight, the series reveals how the tourism sector is evolving to become a driver of positive impact for people and planet.

In this session, to be held during a refreshment break, be among the first to see the Travel Redefined impact showcase film — an exclusive preview of what’s to come — and discover how storytelling at scale can inspire a new era of responsible travel.